June 27, 2020 Sermon Review
Romans 15:1-4; Jeremiah 29: 1-11
Introduction
Two-time presidential candidate and former civil rights leader, Jesse Jackson, had a phrase that he would use whenever he wanted to cement his message of a better tomorrow in the hearts of all of those who were in the audience to hear him speak. The phrase was simply, “keep hope alive!” This phrase eventually became synonymous with Jackson and whenever he wanted to electrify the crowd and bring them to their feet, he would repeat these words over and over again until it reached a crescendo, “keep hope alive…keep hope alive!” Although these words possess a powerful sentiment as they inspire us for something better, I am of the opinion, especially as a Christian, that it is not my job to “keep hope alive.” As one who understands where the roots of my hope lie, it’s not up to me to keep hope alive, but rather it’s hope that keeps me alive. Today as we are being ravaged by viruses, both seen and unseen, where can our world, that at times is too discouraged and disheartened to keep hope alive, find hope? As we shall see in today’s message, “The Monuments of Hope” the answer may be closer than we think.
▪ God has made it clear in his word that the experiences of his people, as recorded in scripture, while they found themselves continually faced with what appeared to be insurmountable odds, should serve not as a deterrent of our faith but rather as a vehicle of hope in believers who at times, will find ourselves confronted with similar or even greater circumstances. Romans 15:1-4; 8:18-25; Proverbs 13:12; Psalms 33:22
▪ Despite the world’s persistent but failed attempts to find true and lasting hope in the things of this world, God has positioned his church to serve as a monument of hope, shedding his light to help lead those lost in utter darkness into the marvelous light of the only true source of hope that this world has. Matthew 5:13-16; 1 Corinthians 15:12-19; Romans 5:1-5; 15:13; Jeremiah 29:1- 11; Psalm 130:1-5; Luke 19:11:13
Conclusion
God never designed it so that we as believers would spend our days trying to “keep hope alive.” Rather, all that he asks is that we come to him, the source of all hope, so that we might receive an infusion from his never-ending supply.
Question for Reflection
Has there ever been a time in your life when you felt that all hope was lost and that you had nowhere to turn, even if it meant turning to God? What was the thing that helped you to come out of your period of darkness? Was it, because of something you read, or was it because of something someone did?
Quotes of the Week
“Outside of the cross of Jesus Christ, there is no hope in this world. That cross and resurrection at the core of the Gospel is the only hope for humanity. Wherever you go, ask God for wisdom on how to get that Gospel in, even in the toughest situations of life.” –Ravi Zacharias
“Faith has to do with things that are not seen and hope with things that are not at hand.” –Thomas Aquinas
“Remember Whose you are and Whom you serve. Provoke yourself by recollection, and your affection for God will increase tenfold; your imagination will not be starved any longer, but will be quick and enthusiastic, and your hope will be inexpressibly bright.” –Oswald Chambers